security 28 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UPDF Boosts Kisoro Border Patrols Amid FDLR Raids and Ransom Kidnappings
The UPDF has ramped up patrols along the Uganda-DRC border in Kisoro District in response to escalating attacks by suspected FDLR rebels, including kidnappings for ransom and robberies that have terrified residents. Lt. Col. Steven Sabitti assured locals that two UPDF soldiers could dismantle a rebel camp, urging them to share intelligence for swift action. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-intensifies-kisoro-border-patrols-after-fdlr-rebel-raids-ransom-kidnappings-5440074
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), alongside other security units, has intensified patrols along the Kisoro border with the Democratic Republic of Congo due to rising threats from suspected FDLR rebels. Residents in areas like Nyabwishenya sub-county, Mupaka, and Nkuringo Town Councils report frequent cross-border incursions involving kidnappings and thefts, sparking widespread fear.
During a security meeting on April 28, 2026, at Kamugemanyi Trading Centre, locals shared harrowing experiences. Rumazimisi Venant described how his neighbor, 57-year-old Musekula Jack, was abducted last weekend. Rebels demanded Shs5 million, settled for Shs500,000, but dumped the victim tied up in a border forest before payment. He is now recovering in hospital with swollen limbs and a gagged mouth.
Manirunva Valence, Mupaka business leader, recounted a March 30 home invasion at 3 a.m., where armed men fled after he alerted police, leaving behind a magazine. Shop owner Uwimana James was assaulted at a rebel roadblock last Thursday, losing Shs1.5 million and sustaining a head wound, though his motorcycle was recovered.
Other incidents include a near-ambush on agriculture officer Mahirwe Guy. Tourism stakeholder Ignatius Bahizi warned that insecurity is deterring investors and visitors, leading to self-imposed curfews after 7 p.m. Local leaders called the area a neglected zone and pointed to possible collaborators, including bribe-taking LC I chairpersons issuing IDs to Congolese nationals.
Lt. Col. Steven Sabitti of the 35th Infantry Battalion promised robust action, stating UPDF has ample manpower and resources. ‘Two UPDF soldiers have the capacity to dismantle an entire rebel camp,’ he assured, emphasizing the need for timely tips from residents.
Kisoro DPC SP Edatu Cosmas urged LC leaders to report suspects and vowed to curb lax police officers, even asking locals to detain those drinking on duty. Attendees submitted anonymous notes naming suspected rebel collaborators.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)